Hey there! Are you moving into a new home or looking to update your locks on a budget? You’re in the right place. Today, I’ll share the cheapest ways to change your house locks and show you how hiring a locksmith or doing it yourself can save you money.
Why Should You Change Your House Locks?
First off, why is changing your locks such a big deal? Well, imagine you just got a brand new toy, and you want to make sure only you can play with it. It’s kind of the same with your house! If someone else has a key, they could just walk right in. So, whether you’re in a new place, lost your keys, or just want to feel extra safe, changing the locks gives you that peace of mind. It’s also a good idea because you don’t know how many copies of the old keys exist.
What are the Main Ways to Change Locks?
Now, there are two main ways to handle this: rekeying your locks or replacing them completely.
- Rekeying is like giving your old lock a secret code change so the old keys won’t work anymore, but you keep the same lock.
- Replacing means taking out the whole lock and putting in a brand new one.
Rekeying Locks: Your Budget-Friendly Choice
Have you ever heard about rekeying? It’s a smart way to save cash. Rekeying means changing the inside parts of your lock so it works with a new key, but you don’t have to buy a whole new lock.
A locksmith usually charges about $50 to $150 per lock for rekeying. That’s way cheaper than buying new locks! If you’re handy, you can even do it yourself using a rekeying kit. These kits are easy to find at local hardware stores and usually cost around $15 to $30.
DIY Rekeying: How to Do It Yourself
Thinking about DIY? Here’s how you can rekey locks on your own:
- Get a Rekeying Kit: Kits come with clear instructions, so don’t worry.
- Remove the lock from the door: All you usually need is a screwdriver.
- Follow the instructions to remove the old pins from your lock and replace them with new ones from your kit.
- Test your new key to make sure it works smoothly.
With a little patience, you’ll be done in no time!
Replacing Locks: When to Consider It
Sometimes, rekeying isn’t enough. If your locks are old, damaged, or you want extra security, replacing your locks might be the better choice. Replacement locks come in many types:
- Standard Locks: Simple locks that cost between $20 to $50.
- High-Security Locks: Offer extra protection, typically costing around $50 to $200.
- Smart Locks: Prices range from $70 to $300 or more, but offer amazing convenience!
DIY Lock Replacement: Simple Steps
Replacing locks can be easy, too:
- Pick a new lock from your local hardware store.
- Remove your old lock with a screwdriver.
- Follow the instructions provided with your new lock. Most locks are simple to install with basic tools like a screwdriver and measuring tape.
- Double-check everything is secure and works smoothly.
Smart Locks: A Fun Way to Stay Secure
Thinking of going high-tech? Smart locks might cost a bit more, but they come with great features like keyless entry, remote control, and easy integration with your phone. Popular affordable smart locks include:
- Wyze Smart Lock
- August Smart Lock
- Yale Assure Lock
Smart locks make your life easier, and many people think they’re worth the small extra cost.
Should You Hire a Locksmith or DIY?
So, what’s better—doing it yourself or calling a locksmith? Let’s break it down:
When to Hire a Locksmith
Hiring a locksmith is great if:
- You want it done fast and professionally.
- You’re not comfortable doing DIY projects.
- You have complicated or multiple locks.
Locksmiths typically charge around $50-$150 per lock for rekeying and about $75-$200 for replacing standard locks, depending on where you live. They’re also available 24/7 if you ever need emergency services.
Going DIY: Saving Money Yourself
DIY can save lots of money, especially if you have multiple locks. With easy-to-follow videos online, you’ll have plenty of help. But remember, your security is super important, so if you don’t feel confident, a locksmith is your safest bet!
Extra Money-Saving Tips for Lock Changes
Want to stretch your budget even further? Here’s how:
- Buy in Bulk: If you’re changing multiple locks, purchasing a set of locks or rekeying kits can save you money.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep locks clean and lubricated to avoid costly replacements later.
- Discounts & Deals: Check hardware store sales or online deals to find discounts on locks and tools.
Taking Your Locks to a Locksmith
Did you know you can take your locks off the doors yourself and bring them to a local locksmith? This can be cheaper than having the locksmith come to your house because you save on their travel costs. The price to rekey a lock at their shop can be as low as $5 to $20 per lock. They are experts, so you can be sure the job is done right, and they can also make sure all your locks use the same key if they can.
Thinking About Security and Hiring a Locksmith
Now, while saving money is great, there are a few other things to think about. How secure do you want your home to be? Are your old locks in good shape? Are you comfortable with doing things yourself? Sometimes, even though it might cost a little more, hiring a locksmith to come to your house can be the best choice. They can handle more complicated locks, give you advice on security, and make sure everything is working perfectly. A locksmith can also help if your only key is missing.
If you do decide to call a locksmith, here are some ways to save money:
- Get quotes from a few different ones.
- Try to schedule the appointment during regular business hours so you don’t have to pay extra for after-hours or emergency service.
- Like we talked about, you can ask if they charge less if you take the locks to their shop.
One more tip: don’t forget about your garage! If you change the locks on your doors, it’s also a good idea to reprogram your garage door opener.
Choosing the Best Option for Your Home
The cheapest way to change your house locks usually means rekeying instead of replacing. But whether you DIY or hire a locksmith, the goal is keeping your family safe without overspending.
Now you’re ready! Your locks can be secure, reliable, and budget-friendly. Go ahead and choose the best way to keep your home safe, affordable, and worry-free!
North York Locksmith – Timpson Locksmith
Just moved to North York and thinking about your home security? At Timpson Locksmith, we understand the importance of feeling safe in your new house. Don’t leave your security to chance – changing your locks is the first crucial step! Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way to change locks through rekeying your existing hardware or need complete lock replacement, our expert locksmiths in North York are here to help.
We offer cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs and budget. Our skilled technicians can quickly rekey your locks, ensuring old keys no longer work, or professionally install new, high-quality locks for enhanced security. Skip the DIY hassle and trust Timpson Locksmith for reliable and efficient service. Contact us today at (647) 209-7681 for a consultation and experience peace of mind knowing your home is secure. Your safety is our priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rekey different brands of locks to use the same key?
Generally, locks from different manufacturers cannot be rekeyed to use the exact same key. This is because they have different internal mechanisms and use different key blanks with varying sizes and shapes of grooves. However, if you have different brands of locks and want them all to work with one key, you would typically need to replace some or all of the locks with the same brand and keyway so they can be keyed alike by a locksmith or yourself if using compatible DIY kits.
Is it always cheaper to rekey than to replace locks?
Rekeying is almost always cheaper than replacing locks. When you rekey, you are only paying for the labor to change the internal pins of the existing lock and the cost of new keys or a rekey kit. Replacing locks involves the cost of the entire new hardware in addition to the labor for installation if you hire a locksmith. However, if your existing locks are old, damaged, or of low quality, replacing them might be a better long-term investment in security.
Are DIY rekeying kits difficult to use?
The difficulty of using DIY rekeying kits can vary depending on your handiness, patience, and the specific type of lock you are working with. Some people find it straightforward, especially with the help of online tutorials, while others might find the small parts and detailed instructions fiddly. It’s crucial to get a kit that is specifically designed for your lock brand and carefully follow the instructions. If you are not comfortable working with small mechanical parts, hiring a locksmith for rekeying might be a less frustrating option.
Where can I buy locks that can be rekeyed easily?
Kwikset SmartKey locks are specifically designed for easy, user-friendly rekeying without needing a traditional rekey kit or a locksmith in many cases. These locks come with a special tool that, along with your existing working key and a new Kwikset key, allows you to rekey the lock in seconds. You can find these locks at most major home improvement stores and online retailers.
Should I change the locks on interior doors as well?
The primary focus when moving into a new house is usually on exterior doors for security reasons. However, you might consider changing locks on interior doors if there are privacy concerns for specific rooms, such as bedrooms or home offices. If you want the convenience of a single key for all locks, including some interior ones, this can be achieved by rekeying or replacing interior locks to match the keyway of your exterior locks.
Are smart locks a cheap option for changing locks?
While the initial cost of smart locks is generally higher compared to traditional deadbolts and knob locks, they can offer long-term benefits such as keyless entry, remote access, and increased security features. If you are looking for the absolute cheapest way to change locks upfront, standard rekeying or basic lock replacement is more affordable. However, if you value the convenience and advanced features of smart locks and plan to stay in the home for a while, they can be a worthwhile investment.
What tools will I need to change or rekey my locks?
For changing locks, the most common tool you’ll need is a Phillips head screwdriver. In some cases, especially with older hardware or if you encounter stripped screws, you might need a drill with screwdriver bits, pliers, or a utility knife to score around the lock plates if they are painted. For rekeying locks yourself, you will typically need the rekey kit specific to your lock brand, which usually includes a control key or follower bar, pin tweezers, and potentially a pin segment tool.
Read How Much Does a Local Locksmith Cost? A Comprehensive Breakdown
